Sainz concerned about Middle East F1 finale

Williams driver Carlos Sainz questioned whether Formula 1 can complete its season in the Middle East. Sainz said it is too early to assume the final two races will go ahead on schedule while tensions in the region continue.

Formula 1 and the FIA still expect the Qatar Grand Prix on 27-29 November and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on 4-6 December to take place. Sainz, however, believes the situation is too unpredictable to give firm assurances. He said the US midterm elections on 3 November and wider political developments around the world could change the security situation quickly.

The conflict involving Iran has raised concerns about the safety of sporting events in the region. Formula 1 cancelled the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Grands Prix in April because of the war. The FIA also cancelled the final round of the World Rally Championship in Saudi Arabia.

Despite his reservations, Sainz said drivers must ultimately follow the decision of Formula 1 and the FIA. In his view, officials should prepare for sudden changes and not assume that every race will go ahead regardless of conditions.

Red Bull driver Isack Hadjar and McLaren's Oscar Piastri also said they trust the governing bodies to put safety first. Piastri jokingly referred to the possibility that the race venue could change at the last minute.